Tinton Falls Spotlight Corner

Spotlight: Nation’s Oldest Mayor, Vito Perillo turns 100 years old.

Vito Perillo, the beloved Mayor of Tinton Falls, has lived a life that embodies dedication, hard work, and a deep commitment to family and community. As he celebrates his 100th birthday, his story serves as an inspiration not just to his fellow residents but to the entire nation.

Born in 1924, Vito is a member of the “Greatest Generation” that helped shape the world we live in today. A proud Navy veteran of World War II, he carried the values of discipline, service, and perseverance into every role he took on in life. After serving his country, he embarked on a long career as a civil engineer at Fort Monmouth, where his attention to detail and passion for his work earned him great respect.

Despite his long career and life’s challenges, Vito never lost sight of what mattered most: his family. Married to his late wife Mae for 64 years, Vito was a dedicated husband, father, and role model to his two daughters. His commitment to their education and well-being was central to his life. Even while working full-time and pursuing his own education later in life, Vito always made time for his family. His daughters fondly recall evenings where he would come home from work, enjoy dinner with the family, and then sit at the kitchen table to study—demonstrating the importance of lifelong learning.

It wasn’t until 2017, at the age of 93, that Vito decided to enter the world of politics, and he took it upon himself to bring change to Tinton Falls. His first campaign was nothing short of remarkable. With the same determination that had guided him throughout his life, Vito went door-to-door, personally handing out over 7,500 flyers, and even wore out two pairs of shoes in the process. His hard work paid off when he won the election by over 300 votes, becoming mayor at an age when most people are long retired.

As mayor, Vito approached his role with the same strong work ethic and integrity that had always defined him. He surrounded himself with a team of talented professionals and made it his mission to serve the people of Tinton Falls with honesty and transparency. He focused on improving public safety and managing the borough’s finances, always keeping the best interests of his community at heart.

Vito’s leadership is guided by the same values he has carried throughout his life: commitment to others, personal responsibility, and a sense of duty. 

Even now, at 100 years old, he remains active in the community, always eager to contribute and give back. He jokes that his secret to longevity might lie in playing golf and enjoying a glass of wine, but those who know him best say it’s his passion for making a difference that truly keeps him going.

Today, Vito Perillo’s legacy is not just that of a record-breaking mayor, but of a man who has spent a lifetime showing that true leadership comes from a desire to serve and uplift those around you. His story is a testament to the power of hard work, family values, and the belief that it’s never too late to make an impact.

As Vito celebrates his 100th birthday, join us in honoring a man who has given so much of himself for the betterment of his community. His influence, both as a leader and a family man, will be felt for generations to come.

On Behalf of members of Council, Risa Clay, Lawrence Dobrin, Tracy Buckley, John Manginelli, Mike Nesci, Borough Administrator Charles Terefenko, Borough Professionals and all the Employees we wish him a very Happy 100^th Birthday, in good health for long life and an abundance of happiness!

Special Thanks to:

Council President Risa Clay and Mrs. Pamela Dobrin

Borough Administrator Charles Terefenko

Doreen Hoffmann, Deanna Keefer and Trish Zibrin

Asbury Park Press